“Dear John” A Prostitution Warning From Sanford Police

Starting this week, the registered owners of vehicles spotted lingering in areas with known prostitutes, will receive a Community Safety Letter from the Sanford Police Department. The letter will serve as a warning that someone is watching them and that prostitution is unacceptable in the community.

Men, if you are married your wife may not appreciate checking the mail and finding a letter warning that picking up prostitutes is illegal.

Letters will only be generated when an officer is sure the driver is not lost but, in fact, circling the block looking for a prostitute.

The goal of this program is to act as a deterrent and reduce the demand for prostitution, by stripping away the anonymity of the exchange. “Cracking down on prostitution is an important step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” said Chief Smith.

The letter will read as follows:

The Sanford Community, in conjunction with the Sanford Police Department, is committed to improving the safety and security of the communities and streets within the City of Sanford. Numerous residents and business people have expressed their concerns regarding street prostitution in their neighborhoods. This community safety letter is our way of informing you of the important initiative underway within this neighborhood and to seek your support.

There is a clear correlation between street prostitution and drug use, including crack cocaine, as well as a variety of health concerns including H.I.V and Hepatitis. Community members, including their children, are frequently finding used needles and condoms in playgrounds and public areas. The increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic has a direct effect on the quality of life for the community and we need your help to improve this community.

In order to maximize the efforts of community leaders in securing safe streets for their children, the Sanford Police Department kindly asks that you help the members of these communities. You can do your part by refraining from bringing your vehicle into this area unnecessarily. The Sanford Police Department applauds the efforts of this neighborhood in attempting to make it a safe community for its families and children. On their behalf, we welcome your support for this important community safety initiative.

If you have any questions, you may consult the Sanford Police Department website

(www.sanfordfl.gov) or you may call me directly at 407-688-5070. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.

We want to hear from you. How do you feel about this form of community service that is being provided? What would a wife do if she were to open a letter of this nature?